I remember the first time that the "thought" of adoption ever entered my mind. We lived in our "house with the green carpet," as the boys always say. I was alone (which was weird) watching a documentary on adoption. It was never something I thought about, it was just something I thought would be interesting to watch. I already had three children; at the time, ages 6, 4 and 2. I had my "hands full," as most people would comment in the stores. Duh. Three kids was always my number, I suppose because I was one of three children.

After our youngest turned 3, Patterson and I decided it was time to "get fixed." The deed was done. I never had the "urge" to get pregnant again. So during the documentary, I went from never thinking about adoption, to crying on my bed at the thought of doing it. It was an intense experience. I never shared that with anyone because, frankly, I thought everyone would think I was crazy. I tucked it away, and after several years had that same intense experience again. Once again, though, we were getting ready to make our move from Colorado to Washington. After we moved to Washington, the thought of another child would not leave my mind. I thought, "Lord, what is going on with me? We just moved to another state and are hardly settled and I'm thinking about another child!" I finally sat down and talked with the Lord about it. I told him that if this was His heart for us, to please tell Patterson. I didn't want to be the one to bring it up.

So, one beautiful, sunny afternoon while we were celebrating our 14th anniversary, Patterson wanted to share something with me... We were in his car driving and these words rang into my ears, "I think we should adopt." I'm telling you, my head started to spin. I literally got dizzy. I didn't know what to say. Why is it that we are always so shocked when God answers our prayers? I just couldn't believe it. It was one of the most beautiful moments in our marriage.

Our 14th anniversary will always be special to me because that is when Rebekah was "conceived."

I know a lot of people think that after three boys I needed a daughter. That is not the case. She needs me, and she needs Patterson and three big brothers. The boys have been begging me for years for a little sister. I always told them that God would have to do it, and He has.

"Rebekah, to think that God had you in mind for us all this time. You've been in my heart for so many years, and God has chosen this special time to bring you home. We can hardly wait." - Mom